Rakhine Conflict: Dhaka Engages with Both Myanmar Government and Arakan Army

Dhaka in Dialogue with Myanmar Government and Arakan Army to Safeguard National Interests

Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that Dhaka is maintaining communication with both the Myanmar government and the Arakan Army, the rebel group currently controlling the 271-km land and river border with Bangladesh, to protect national interests.

"The border is now entirely under the control of the Arakan Army, though Myanmar is officially governed by its government. In light of this situation, we must stay in contact with both sides," the adviser explained in response to a journalist's query at the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority jetty in Damdamia, on the Naf River in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar, yesterday.

He further emphasized that contact with both parties has been maintained from the outset to safeguard Bangladesh’s interests.

Rohingya Crisis and Border Security

The adviser revealed that around 60,000 Rohingyas had entered Bangladesh with assistance from certain unscrupulous Bangladeshi brokers. He noted that no policy decision has been made regarding the registration or sheltering of these newly arrived individuals.

"We need everyone's cooperation to curb the activities of these brokers, or they will become a serious issue. Trespassing will not be tolerated under any circumstances," he said, adding that Chief Adviser Dr. Yunus had addressed the Rohingya repatriation issue at the recent UN conference.

Jahangir reassured that the Bangladesh border is under complete control of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Coast Guard. "Locals at the border have no reason to fear, although violence continues on the other side of the border," he stated.

Tackling Drug Trafficking

Highlighting long-standing challenges in the Teknaf area, the adviser said, "This area has a notorious history of drug trafficking. Even Mr. Bodi was infamous for such activities. We need collective efforts to combat this problem, as law enforcement alone cannot resolve it."

On-Site Assessment

Earlier, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury flew to Teknaf from Dhaka via helicopter. He held discussions with BGB officials, inspected various border points, and assessed the overall situation.

BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui accompanied the home adviser during the visit.